Fatima Sana joins Perth Scorchers for Women’s Big Bash League

Pakistan women’s cricket captain Fatima Sana has signed a one-year contract with Perth Scorchers for the upcoming Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) season, the Australian club announced on Saturday. The 24-year-old all-rounder will be available for the Scorchers’ first eight matches of WBBL 12, which begins on Oct 29. Her stay could be extended if she receives permission from the Pakistan Cricket Board to miss a training camp ahead of the national side’s expected tour of the West Indies in December. Fatima becomes only the second Pakistani player to feature in the WBBL, following former captain Nida Dar, who represented Sydney Thunder in 11 matches during the 2019 edition. The signing marks Fatima’s WBBL debut and her second overseas T20 league appearance this year, having played for Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred. “I’ve watched the WBBL from Pakistan and always wondered what it would feel like to be part of this great competition,” Fatima said in a statement issued by the Scorchers. “To now wear the Scorchers colours, represent such a great club and walk out at the WACA Ground in front of members and fans, while being cheered on by people back home, is incredibly special. This really is a dream come true.” A right-arm medium-fast bowler and middle-order batter, Fatima made her international debut in 2019 and has since established herself as one of Pakistan’s leading all-rounders. She has represented Pakistan in more than 130 white-ball matches. Earlier this year, she set a record for the fastest half-century in women’s T20 internationals when she reached the landmark in 15 balls against Zimbabwe. Perth Scorchers general manager Kade Harvey welcomed Fatima’s signing, describing her as “one of the most exciting young allrounders in world cricket”. He said the club was looking forward to seeing her perform at the WACA Ground.